In great part, this is for the reason that its growth has become something of a given by now -- which is quite something when one takes into consideration that it was only 16 months ago (Nov. 2007) when Pope Benedict XVI began to employ this arrangement, not only upon the main altars of the Roman basilicas, but upon the other altars he has used as well.

This custom is still maintained throughout the East, so that the liturgical or high altar of the solemn sacrifice is isolated from what may be called the altars of devotional sacrifice on which Mass is said privately.